Micosoft fans, the time has come -- Windows 8 will be available tonight at midnight, and you can pick it up via download or variety of new devices.

Microsoft sent out its official Windows 8 press release today announcing that the new operating system will be available at 12:01 a.m. on October 26. Alongside the Windows 8 launch will be the grand opening of the Windows Store, where customers can purchase apps for the latest OS.

Windows 8 Pro will be available to download here for $39.99 USD (Or $69.99 if you want it shipped to you). For those who would prefer to buy Windows 8 from retailers, there's the option to buy Windows 8 or Windows 8 Pro. Companies can also buy Windows 8 Enterprise for all business needs.

Windows RT will also be available at 12:01. For those who aren't up to speed, Windows RT is a variation of Windows 8 that is specifically meant for ARM-based tablets. It was built for apps in the new Windows Store, such as Microsoft Office 2013.

For those with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, an uprgrade to Windows 8 Pro will be avilable for $39.99 USD via download through the end of January. If you bought a Windows 7 machine after June 2 and plan to buy one before January 31, 2013, customers in over 140 markets can download Windows 8 Pro for only $14.99 USD using the Windows Upgrade Offer here.

"We have reimagined Windows and the result is a stunning lineup of new PCs," said Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO. "Windows 8 brings together the best of the PC and the tablet. It works perfect for work and play and it is alive with your world. Every one of our customers will find a PC that they will absolutely love."

Microsoft recently announced its Surface tablet, which is Microsoft-built hardware running the new Windows RT OS. The new tablet will include a 10.6-inch display, an ARM-based processor (NVIDIA quad-core Tegra 3), 32GB or 64GB storage options, 2GB of memory, 1366x768 resolution, 720p rear- and front-facing cameras, a USB port and a microSDXC slot. Also, the tablet has a VaporMg magnesium casing and a built-in kickstand with the option to purchase a touch cover or type cover keyboard/screen protector. It's $499 for the 32GB, $599 for the 32GB with touch cover, or $699 for the 64GB with touch cover.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was recently quoted saying that Windows 8 and the new Surface tablet are "incredible" products, and are "key to where personal computing is going."

I don't think it will sink, but I don't think it will do that great in the desktop market either. It was necessary to make windows 8 to get into the tablet/Phone market, and that's what really matters. The penetration into the desktop market is secondary.

There will be plenty of people like me, who will buy it because it's cheaper than Windows 7. I think a lot of the Modern UI Apps suck sweaty balls on a 24" screen. But I'll just wiz right through to the desktop with a 3rd party start menu. it's not as bad as Vista which was painfully sluggish.